Mark

We'll be going to Anguilla the end of June. Never been to the Caribbean. Other than bathing suits and money, does anyone have any suggestions as to what we should bring? For instance, are travelers checks recommended, or are we likely to be able to use ATM cards there to get cash? Do most places take credit cards? Since we're on a budget (and we're going to Anguilla?), can I bring a bottle of wine or two, or is that kind of thing illegal (besides tacky)? In any case, reading all the great comments about the island has made it that much harder to wait...

Sharon Scanlan

We just got back from a week in Anguilla and you will have a wonderful time. The restaurants are very expensive but they are wonderful and they all take credit cards. I like to have a cocktail before dinner and a port after dinner so we bought a couple of bottles in the duty free at Porto Rico and had our drinks sitting on the beach in front of our room which was wonderful and it saved a bit on the high prices you pay at the hotels and restaurants.
If you want any more info please e-mail me directly and I will answer what I can. Sharon

Jean E. Bowers

You did not say if you are staying in a hotel or condo. Everything that you think that you will need should be purchased at home and taken with you. The cost of even basic essentials is at least twice what you will pay at home, and some things are impossible to find there. Liquor and wine is very inexpensive so hold off and purchase that on the island. A package store is the best for soda and snacks and fruit juices for drinks. A glass of Coke will run you up to $2.50 but a can of Coke $1.00. I am traveling to Jamaica and have tucked is small bags of nuts,dried fruits, several types of cookies. If you are renting a condo fill up a suitcase with non parishable items, coffee, sugar, micro wave popcorn, and anything else in cans. Remember it is very humid so crackers etc. get stale very fast. This being your first trip to the Caribbean, you are in for a treat. There is nothing better than sitting in beach chairs and watching the sun melt into the sea while sipping a glass of wine. Soon the island will work its magic and this will be the first of many island vacations.

Jill

Hi! This may be too late a response, but here goes.... We have spent about 13 weeks vacationing in Anguilla in the past 3 years, and take less and less with us. The IGA in the valley stocks most items you would need and is really not very expensive, compared to my groceries in Toronto. Wine can be purchased at cheaper prices than home in the liquor store The Valley, beer is about $20 CDN a case. I take a few spices and herbs with me, Ziplok bags, (very useful), and buy the rest there. The fish market is good for local catches, chicken and eggs are plentiful, most salad items and veggies are available. Shop carefully and there's no need to spend a fortune!
One thing we ALWAYS bring is our favourite sunscreen, Bain de Soleil all day in a 15 or 30. It lasts ALL day, even after swimming, even on our kids. No reapplying on the beach (gritty!) and we've never burned. Tried many other types, but this is IT, as far as we are concerned. If you need any more help, feel free to email. Anguilla is GORGEOUS, you'll have a fabulous time! Enjoy!

jackie dickie

Hello, I am currently looking at a 2 week vacation in early Jan 98 in Anquilla. This would be our 1st
trip. Any suggestions as to where to stay? Any help in what it would cost to buy groceries for breakfast and lunch. You compared the prices to
the IGA, I'm from just north of Toronto and would
appreciate some advice in choosing this destination. Please contact me, as there are lots of questions
Thanks jackie dickie -BRADFORD ONTARIO